Question

A nurse is caring for a client. The nurse is reviewing the client's diagnostic results.

Skip Nurse's' Notes Diagnostic Results:
1000:
Sodium 150 mEq/L (136-145)
Potassium 4.8 mEq/L (3.5-5)
Calcium 9.5 mg/dL (7.6-10.4)
BUN 24 mg/dL (10-20)
WBC count 12,000/mm3 (5,000-10,000)

ABG's
pH 7.35 (7.35-7.45)
PCO2 50 mm Hg (35-45)
HCO3 24 mEq/L (22-26)

Chest x-ray reveals increased opacity in the bilateral posterior lobes

Vital signs:
Temperature 38.6C (101.5F)
Heart Rate 98/min
Respiratory rate 24/min
Blood Pressure 110/56 mm Hg
Oxygen saturation 88% on room air

Which of the following findings requires follow-up by the nurse? (Select all that apply)

A. Calcium level
B. HCO3 level
C. BUN level
D. WBC count
E. Oxygen saturation level
F. PCO2 level
G. Chest X-ray

Answer 1

The findings that require follow-up by the nurse are the BUN level, WBC count, oxygen saturation level, PCO2 level, and chest X-ray.

Step-by-step explanation:

The findings that require follow-up by the nurse are:

1. Calcium level: The calcium level of 9.5 mg/dL is within the normal range of 7.6-10.4 mg/dL, so it does not require immediate follow-up.
2. HCO3 level: The HCO3 level of 24 mEq/L is within the normal range of 22-26 mEq/L, so it does not require immediate follow-up.
3. BUN level: The BUN level of 24 mg/dL is slightly elevated above the normal range of 10-20 mg/dL, indicating possible kidney dysfunction. This finding requires follow-up by the nurse.
4. WBC count: The WBC count of 12,000/mm3 is slightly elevated above the normal range of 5,000-10,000/mm3, indicating possible infection or inflammation. This finding requires follow-up by the nurse.
5. Oxygen saturation level: The oxygen saturation level of 88% on room air is below the normal range of 95-100%. This finding indicates hypoxemia and requires immediate follow-up by the nurse.
6. PCO2 level: The PCO2 level of 50 mm Hg is slightly elevated above the normal range of 35-45 mm Hg, indicating possible respiratory acidosis. This finding requires follow-up by the nurse.
7. Chest X-ray: The increased opacity in the bilateral posterior lobes seen on the chest X-ray indicates possible pneumonia or consolidation. This finding requires follow-up by the nurse.